Chapter 84: First Evaluation
High above the estate, nestled within the upper levels of the Grand Hall, a concealed observation chamber overlooked the gala.
They were the ruling elite of the Confederacy—the unseen hands who shaped entire star systems. From this vantage point, they watched the next generation, not as spectators, but as judges.
At the center of the room, Cassian Reyes stood motionless, his expression unreadable as he watched the holographic display of his son standing alone, challenging the heirs of the other great houses.
Seated in the shadows around him were figures of equal, if not greater, power:
Anton Petrosyan – The iron-fisted ruler of the Confederacy's military-industrial complex.
Selena Virellian – The silent puppeteer behind intelligence networks that spanned the Confederacy.
Garrick Von Hadris – The architect of political doctrine, master of governance.
Siona Zey'ran – A woman whose very presence commanded fear and respect.
None of them spoke as they watched the five heirs below, their every action dissected in real-time.
This was no mere gathering.
It was an annual test, sanctioned by the Academy and overseen by the ruling elite—a carefully designed crucible meant to strip away illusions and lay bare the instincts, cunning, and resolve of the next generation.